Surf and vino prove a winning combination

Out of all of Australia’s towns, the best one is right here in Western Australia.

Readers from a national travel magazine voted Margaret River as the nation’s best town.

The title was announced at the second annual Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, held in Sydney on Tuesday.

The South West tourist hot spot won the gong for the second year in a row.

With Australian Traveller magazine editor Georgia Rickard saying the awards were an indication of domestic travel trends for 2013, Margaret River tourism operators could be in for a good year.

Augusta Margaret River Tourism Association chief executive Simon Ambrose said he anticipated an increase in visitors to the region as a result of being named Australia’s best town.

“Consumer opinion is becoming a hugely popular source of reference when making travelling plans, and the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards are the only consumer awards for tourism in Australia,” he said.

“To have taken out this award is a huge achievement and we expect holidaymakers to flock to visit Australia’s Best Town!”

Mr Ambrose said the Margaret River region offered something that other towns did not.

“It is utterly unique – its individuality is unparalleled anywhere in the world,” he said.

“Where else can you visit ancient limestone caves, towering karri forests and pristine secluded beaches whilst savouring world class wine and gourmet local produce all in the one day?”

And the town is not just relying on its already good name.

Just last month a new event, The Margaret River Gourmet Escape was added to the region’s calendar.

Nearly 10,000 people mingled with celebrity chefs, attended events including beach barbeques and long table lunches, and enjoyed the Gourmet Village at Leeuwin Estate.

Next year surfers and surf fans can look forward to the Drug Aware Margaret River Pro, which has recently been elevated to World Championship status.

The Kimberley also took out two gongs in the Australian Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards; Australia’s dream destination and best adventure holiday destination in Australia.